IEDC and Rural Affairs Form Partnership
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowTwo state agencies are joining forces in an effort to improve and expand a well-known economic development tool. The Office of Community and Rural Affairs and the Indiana Economic Development Corp. have agreed to a formal partnership involving the Shovel Ready Program. July 18, 2013
News Release
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Today, the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) announced a formal partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) for OCRA to administer the Indiana Shovel Ready Program. The strategic partnership will use their complementary strengths and expertise to expand and improve the program.
The Shovel Ready Program fits with OCRAs mission as it assists with capacity building efforts in towns, cities, and counties. Certifying sites as “Shovel-Ready” is an important step to attracting new businesses. The community and IEDC will then market these designated sites to companies that wish to re-locate or expand their operations.
“Businesses and site selectors are looking for sites ready for development, and this transfer will streamline the process for communities and new businesses through the marketing efforts of the IEDC,” said Dax Norton, executive director of OCRA. “OCRA and the IEDC will combine our strengths to deliver certified sites to help companies more easily navigate the selection process.”
“The IEDC's partnership with OCRA will better equip communities with the resources they need to realize the impact of the Shovel Ready program and accelerate the process of attracting new investment and jobs for Hoosiers,” said Eric Doden, president of the IEDC. “We are pleased to solidify our partnership with OCRA to help prepare the way for economic development.”
OCRA is also announcing significant enhancements to the state program. In addition to the existing designation, Silver and Gold tiers are now being recognized for their increased readiness and marketability.
Please visit www.in.gov/ocra/2622.htm for additional information on the Shovel Ready program.
Source: The State of Indiana